Driveway Replacement
New driveways and driveway replacements
Driveway Replacement in St. Louis and St. Charles
A lasting driveway replacement starts below the surface. Midwest Hardscapes removes failed concrete, corrects base and drainage problems, and installs reinforced concrete driveways built for St. Louis freeze-thaw cycles, clay soils, and daily vehicle use.
Use this page to compare driveway replacement options, then visit our service-area pages for city-specific concrete guidance across Ballwin, Chesterfield, St. Louis, Webster Groves, St. Charles, O'Fallon, and nearby communities.
View all Midwest Hardscapes service areas or request a free concrete estimate.
What this service includes
- Full concrete driveway tear-out and replacement
- Base preparation, compaction, and drainage corrections
- Fiberglass reinforcement and clean concrete finishing
- Residential driveways, aprons, walkways, and transitions
Related concrete services
Service questions
When should a concrete driveway be replaced instead of repaired?
Replacement is usually the better choice when the slab has widespread cracking, settlement, drainage failure, or multiple patched areas. A site visit lets us confirm whether repair or replacement gives the better long-term value.
How long does driveway replacement usually take?
Many residential driveway replacements can be completed quickly once the site is ready, but timing depends on demolition, base correction, weather, access, and concrete curing needs.
Do you handle driveway replacement outside St. Charles?
Yes. Midwest Hardscapes serves the broader St. Louis region and has city-specific service pages for many nearby communities.
Driveway Replacements in St. Charles, MO
There are two main materials used for driveways: asphalt and concrete. When replacing an asphalt driveway, the contractor applies a base and finish coat over the existing asphalt.
The cracks should be treated with weed killer and filled in, and if the driveway is not draining correctly, it should be graded. The surface layer also needs to be a consistent 1 ½ inch throughout, which might require excavation around door openings and garage thresholds. On the other hand, large areas of concrete cannot be resurfaced reliably. Therefore, the contractor will need to break up the old slab of concrete and pour a new one.
A driveway is a major investment; therefore, it’s normal to wonder what you are investing in, so you know what to expect during each step of the process without being surprised.
Steps of Installation
The four main steps of installing a driveway include foundation preparation, initial material, manipulation of material, and hardening. Each step looks a little different for concrete and asphalt.
When preparing the foundation for a concrete driveway, grass and debris will need to be removed to ensure a stable soil foundation. Wood forms will then be installed around the perimeter sections, gravel will be added, and then graded and compacted. Finally, metal reinforcement will be placed over the gravel. The initial material includes pouring the concrete and making sure it is evenly distributed throughout the wooden forms. Manipulation of the material is when the surface is finished and it is left smooth, a process called floating. During the final stage of hardening, the concrete is cured. It is important to remember that it will take at least one week before you are able to drive on your new driveway.
Preparation for an asphalt driveway includes preparing the surface for water drainage, laying the asphalt foundation to a certain thickness, compacting the asphalt foundation, and making sure the foundation is stable. The initial material involves laying down the binder layer (asphalt made of large particles in oil) and laying down the surface layer (asphalt made of fine particles which provide a smooth surface). During the manipulation of the material stage, joints and transitions are created, which create seams where the asphalt and other surfaces meet. Afterward, a roller will compact the surface one last time. Your new asphalt driveway will then be ready to drive on within 1-3 days.
Gallery of Recent Work
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Working with a professional who knows how to install a driveway properly will make the process easier. A professional can guide you in the particulars and can give a detailed account of the project centered on your unique driveway needs.
FAQ
What are some of the most common reasons for needing to replace a driveway?
Driveways typically need to be replaced due to excessive wear and tear caused by weather, trees, ground movement or settling, or vehicle use. There could also be structural problems that cause potholes and other damage. If your driveway is over 20 years old, it may need to be replaced due to the age and the deterioration of the materials.
How long does a driveway replacement typically take?
The length of time to replace a driveway depends on its size, access points, and other factors. Generally, an experienced contractor can complete a driveway replacement in two to three days.
What kind of materials are used for driveway replacements?
The type of material used for a driveway replacement depends on the appearance, durability, and cost desired. Popular options include asphalt, concrete, gravel, brick pavers, and recycled materials.
What is the cost of a driveway replacement?
The cost of a driveway replacement varies depending on the size and type of material used. Generally, asphalt costs less than concrete but requires more frequent maintenance. A professional contractor can provide an estimate for your specific project.
Driveways
Working with a professional who knows how to install a driveway properly will make the process easier & your experience more enjoyable.
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